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How to Avoid Hotel Resort Fees (and Which Brands Are the Worst)

Sam Kemmis

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Table of Contents

Why resort fees are so annoying

Why do hotels charge fees, how to avoid resort fees, hotels with the highest and lowest resort fees, get out of paying a hotel’s resort fee.

You know how you book a room that’s initially advertised at under $100 per night and then it has suddenly ballooned to more than $150? That’s partially because of taxes, but another huge chunk is likely from resort fees.

Some hotels have more offensive resort fees than others, and — while resort fees tend to run between $20 and $50 among hotels that charge them — they can vary dramatically in price (especially as a percentage of overall trip cost).

Here’s a breakdown of how resort fees work, what they cost and insider tips for how to avoid paying these fees and a ranking of the brands with the highest resort fees.

Sometimes referred to as amenity fees, destination fees, facility fees or resort charges, these semi-hidden fees are one of the most brutal — and increasingly common — aspects of travel.

The first known resort fees sprung up as early as 1997, according to the Federal Trade Commission. It didn’t take long for customers to begin complaining, and in 2012, the FTC sent warnings to 22 hotels that resort fees were not adequately disclosed on their hotel reservation websites. Though resorts have since modified how they disclose resort fees, many complaints still exist.

Much of that is due to what fees actually cover. Back in the day, resort fees were charged to justify luxury amenities associated with the room. More frequently now, though, hotels tack them on to rooms that aren’t resort-like in any way.

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Resort fees are a significant portion of your vacation budget

NerdWallet analyzed more than 100 hotels around the U.S. with December 2023 check-in dates. Among the hotels that charge resort fees, the average resort fee was $38.82, which is lower than last year’s average nightly resort fee of $42.41. Relative to the room rate, resort fees averaged 3.9% of the overall cost to stay at the hotel each night.

But especially at lower-cost hotels, resort fees can represent a bigger chunk of your lodging expenses than that. Take, for example, the Holiday Inn & Suites Orlando SW near Walt Disney World. It’s a seemingly budget-friendly hotel. In November 2024, you can book a room advertised at just $78. But then there’s a $24.97 nightly amenity fee, which amounts to more than 30% of the base nightly rate. After taxes and fees, your $78 room now costs $113 in this example.

hotel tourist fee

And depending on the price of your room, resort fees can sometimes amount to far more than 30% of your room rate.

For example, the Excalibur in Las Vegas costs just $24 per night on certain weeknights in January 2024. But you’ll owe about $8 in taxes plus $35 in resort fees — bringing what seemed like a $24 room to nearly three times that at nearly $67.

hotel tourist fee

Resort fees cover bizarre expenses

Sure, some hotels charge resort fees that are arguably worth it. The $48 resort fee at Hyatt’s Andaz Maui in Hawaii gets you a welcome basket of local snacks including Maui Brewing Co. root beer, guava juice and macadamia nuts, free snorkel equipment and GoPro rentals, and free lessons in ukulele, hula, stand-up paddleboarding and cocktail making. There are also free outrigger canoe rides, among other benefits.

At The Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara, California, the $50 resort fee includes fitness classes, tennis racket and electric bike rentals and guided hiking tours.

But at many other hotels, resort fees cover extras that are hardly extras at all.

At the Excalibur in Las Vegas, the $35 daily fee includes gym access and Wi-Fi (even though most nonresort hotels offer free Wi-Fi and gym usage anyway), plus unlimited calls from the room. Additionally, it covers free boarding pass printing (in case you still prefer them to mobile boarding passes).

Resort fees are mandatory

In most scenarios, you can’t just refuse to pay a resort fee, even if you never set foot in the hotel gym. 

Unlike baggage fees on an airline, which are avoidable by not checking luggage, there is no (easy) way to avoid resort fees. Instead, these fees are simply tacked on at the final step of checkout.

Hotels charge fees for a few reasons. A lower base rate might pique a customer's interest in a hotel they might not otherwise have considered. Hotels then make up the difference in revenue by charging a resort fee rather than one higher, singular base rate.

But it’s not just about getting customers in the door. Some hotels say resort fees allow them to reduce the commissions paid to online travel agents. If a hotel promises to pay, say, 5% of base rates to travel agents, then it would owe $5 on a $100 nightly room. If the room is $50 plus a $50 resort fee, the hotel gets the same amount of money, but it would have to give only $2.50 to the agent.

Even the U.S. government agrees resort fees are no good.

“Studies of drip pricing and partitioned pricing suggest that separating mandatory resort fees from posted room rates without first disclosing the total price is likely to harm consumers,” according to a 2017 report from the FTC.

The report cited “forcing consumers to click through additional webpages to see a hotel’s resort fee” as being a complicated extra step that either makes the consumer do more work or worse forces them “to make an incomplete, less informed decision that may result in a more costly room.”

Because resort fees are required on rooms that charge them, avoiding them requires effort.

Book resort stays with hotel points (at some brands) or with elite status

When you book rooms on some points, some resorts still tack on resort fees, which you must pay in cash on top of the points rate. But at Hilton Honors and World of Hyatt , resort fees are waived on award bookings. This is a win-win because you won’t be paying cash for the room — or the annoying fee.

Owning a Hilton-branded credit card is one of the best ways to quickly earn Hilton points . Likewise, the World of Hyatt Credit Card can be an excellent way to earn Hyatt points . Hyatt is also one of the best Chase transfer partners , which can be appealing for owners of Chase travel credit cards that earn Chase Ultimate Rewards® points .

The best hotel elite status programs don’t charge resort fees to their most loyal members. Hyatt doesn’t charge such fees to Globalist members, which is the highest elite status level in the program. Because Hyatt charges some of the highest fees in the industry, this is an especially valuable perk (though realistically, it’s not one that many travelers can reasonably consider).

Use travel statement credits

Some travel credit cards offer statement credits that cover a broad definition of travel. Charge a covered expense to the card (which can often include ferries, buses, campgrounds and extra fees like luggage), and you can get a reimbursement. Typically, resort fees are also reimbursed under the travel statement credits.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers up to $300 back annually as statement credits for bookings through Capital One Travel, while the Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers up to $300 in statement credits as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each anniversary year. Generally speaking, resort fees qualify.

Make your case in person

Sometimes asking an employee to waive your fee may do the trick. You cannot simply refuse to pay resort fees, but — just as some hotel employees are occasionally empowered to compensate you — the employee might have authority to remove your resort fee.

Just understand that this is the exception, not the norm. And while it doesn’t hurt to ask, it helps to ask nicely.

To better understand the best and worst hotels for resort fees, NerdWallet performed a comprehensive analysis of dozens of individual hotels within seven of the biggest hotel brands to determine which charged the highest resort fees.

The data honed in on hotels in destinations where resort fees are common — such as Las Vegas and Orlando, Florida — as well as major cities. The data, which is part of a broader effort to find the best airline and hotel rewards loyalty programs of 2024 , was collected as part of NerdWallet’s Best-Of Awards 2024 .

Wyndham properties had the highest average resort fees relative to room rates, with Hyatt coming in second for worst resort fees.

Technically, Choice Hotels had the fewest resort fees, but that’s perhaps not surprising given its hotels generally lack resort amenities. Marriott had the second-lowest resort fees as a percentage of room price, and is considered the winner because its properties are generall higher-end than what Choice offers and are more likely to offer resort-style amenities.

Because these fees track somewhat to the cost of the rooms themselves, winners were ranked according to the resort fees as a percentage of the overall room rate. After all, a $35 resort fee on a $1,000-per-night hotel room is likely small potatoes. A $35 resort fee on a $30 nightly rate is a hot potato.

The hotel brand with the highest resort fees: Wyndham

hotel tourist fee

Resort fees at the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas are usually high relative to nightly rates. (Photo courtesy of Caesars Entertainment)

Wyndham’s resort fees average 6.4% of overall room rates, making it the hotel brand with the highest resort fees of all those analyzed by NerdWallet.

Wyndham resort fees typically run between $30 and $50 per night. But a big reason why Wyndham scored so low is because of how high the resort fees are relative to the room rates.

One Wyndham property, the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino, often has among the cheapest nightly rates of any of the Las Vegas resorts. NerdWallet’s analysis found that, given the relatively low nightly rates, the $44.22 resort fee netted out to a painful 45% of the total cost.

Another big resort fee offender: Hyatt

hotel tourist fee

The Miraval Berkshires Resort and Spa in Lenox, Massachusetts. (Photo courtesy of Hyatt)

At Hyatt, resort fees average 4.7% of the overall room rate — an average rate that includes properties that don’t typically charge resort fees at all, such as the budget-minded Hyatt House and Hyatt Place brands.

Hyatt got dinged especially hard by one outlier brand in particular: Miraval. Miraval is an ultra-luxury, all-inclusive resort where you won’t pay a dime for most expenses, including shuttle transportation, meals, nonalcoholic drinks, classes and use of other amenities. The employees don’t even accept tips. Nightly room rates usually exceed $1,000 and sometimes well beyond that.

Miraval’s resort fees are unique in that they are 25% of the overall rate. With a rate of $1,000 per night, resort fees can cost about $250 nightly, and — unlike many other resorts — Miraval charges per person. Couples can expect to pay over $500 per room in resort fees alone.

Even at more accessibly-priced Hyatt properties that charge resort fees, they're relatively high at an average of $60.16. This exceeds the industry average of $38.82 by more than $20.

NerdWallet’s resort fee analysis is based on averages, and there is no guarantee that a specific hotel will charge a resort fee at all (or that it will be higher than that of a competitor nearby). That said, this is a good starting point for finding hotels that offer fewer or more moderate resort fees.

The hotel brand with the lowest resort fees: Marriott

hotel tourist fee

Plenty of Marriott properties in resort areas, including Marriott’s Harbour Lake in Orlando, Florida, have dreamy amenities with no resort fees. (Photo courtesy of Marriott)

In contrast to Hyatt’s high fees, resort fees were less common at Marriott properties — even at higher end brands like the JW Marriott. The average resort fee across all Marriott hotels in NerdWallet’s analysis was just 2.5%.

In 2021, Marriott made a consumer-friendly move when it committed to implementing a policy that would be upfront and transparent in the disclosure of mandatory fees , including resort fees, as part of the total price of a hotel stay. That means the total price of your hotel stay, including room rate and all other mandatory fees, appears on the first page of Marriott’s booking website — not after you’ve clicked through a bunch of buttons only to realize you’ve been hit with a resort fee at the checkout page.

Perhaps the best way to get out of paying hotel resort fees is to not stay at hotels that charge them, period. According to the American Hotel and Lodging Association, about 6% of hotels charge resort fees — and these are the properties that have far more available amenities than other lodging facilities.

Among the hotel chains with top-tier amenities and no resort fees are Drury Hotels, Ovolo and Disney.

And while most hotels in popular tourist destinations like Las Vegas and Hawaii will charge them, you can find some gems .

In Hawaii, you might stay at the Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore, where you’ll get access to standard amenities like Wi-Fi, a fitness center and a swimming pool (complete with waterfall) and can also experience ukulele and hula classes, plus activities like trivia — all with no resort fee.

If resort fees are your big hang-up, you might also find that vacation rentals like Airbnb are more cost-effective than hotels — especially for longer stays or trips with large groups.

Targeting hotel brands that charge fewer and less-frequent resort fees is a good start.

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Hotel Resort Fees — What They Are and How to Avoid Them!

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Hotel Resort Fees — What They Are and How to Avoid Them!

What is a Hotel Resort Fee?

Book an award stay, use your elite status, final thoughts.

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If you want to get a relaxed vacationer upset quickly, just mention resort fees. These annoying extra fees are often charged at resort hotels to cover extra perks ranging anywhere from a welcome drink to phone calls to beach chairs.

The frustrating part is that you’re required to pay the fees regardless of whether or not you use the extra services. These fees aren’t included in the room price until right before you book, so it can make price comparisons between hotel booking websites difficult.

Resort fees have gotten some people so upset that hotel chains like Marriott and Hilton have even been sued over them.

So, what’s a traveler to do? We’ll show you exactly what these resort fees are, where to find them, and most importantly, how to avoid them.

Hotel resort fees, also called amenity or destination fees, are pesky additions to your hotel bill that cover anything from Wi-Fi to parking. While they are disclosed before you book a hotel, they can be easy to miss and can add a lot to your final bill.

Resort fees can range from under $10 per day to over $50 per day (some, like the resort fee at Dorado Beach, a Ritz Carlton Reserve property, are over $100!). For a week-long vacation, these fees could add hundreds of dollars to your hotel bill!

The things that you may see as a “benefit” of your resort fee can include activities and amenities you would expect to be already included in your room rate, like local calls or an in-room safe.

Other things we’ve seen listed as resort fee amenities include:

  • Beach chairs and umbrellas
  • Bike rentals
  • Enhanced internet
  • Access to the fitness center
  • Tennis court access
  • Photography session
  • Snorkel lessons
  • Pool activities
  • Food credit
  • Self-parking

While some of these amenities seem nice, many are what you would expect to be complimentary at a resort.

You might also notice resort fees at properties you wouldn’t consider a resort, like hotels in big cities like New York City . They get away with it by calling it a destination fee, but it’s basically the same thing.

NYC hotel destination fee

Which Hotels Have a Resort Fee?

When you’re booking a Marriott hotel , keep an eye out for the resort fee disclosure when you’re looking at room rates.

Marriott booking fees

Hot Tip: Pay attention to how the resort fee disclosure is worded. While most of the time you’ll see a flat rate per day charge, you’ll also find per person charges and charges that are based on your room rate!

10% room rate resort fee

Hyatt resort fees will be noted before you select a room, however, the disclosure isn’t highlighted, so it can be easy to miss.

Hyatt Resort fees

When you’re booking a Hilton Hotel , you’ll be able to see if there is a resort fee when you’re searching for a room type. However, you won’t be able to see what the fee is until you scroll down a bit to each individual room type.

Hilton Resort Fees

The IHG resort fee disclosure is really hard to find and doesn’t even appear until right before you’re ready to book. Keep an eye out for these sneaky fees!

IHG resort fees

Unfortunately, Wyndham does a good job of hiding their resort fees, too. They aren’t disclosed until you are ready to complete your booking — and you’ll only see the fee breakdown if you click on the Cancellation and Rate Details details.

Wyndham Resort Fees

Hot Tip: Think you’ll avoid a resort fee by staying at an Airbnb? Be careful, because if a host has 6 or more properties, they are able to charge a resort fee!

How to Avoid Paying Resort Fees

Resort fees are a quick way to add to the cost of your vacation. However, the good news is that there are a couple of ways to get out of paying these fees.

One of the easiest ways to avoid resort fees is by booking an award stay. Many hotels will waive the resort fees on stays booked with points.

Hyatt and Hilton always waive resort fees when you book a room with points. Wyndham will also waive resort fees, although there is a good amount of crowdsourced data that suggests their implementation of this policy is spotty.

Grand Hyatt Kauai

Here are some of our favorite credit cards that earn World of Hyatt points:

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card : You’ll earn 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Travel , 3x points on dining, and 2x points on all other travel purchases – plus a host of other benefits . Hyatt is a Chase transfer partner at a 1:1 ratio.
  • The World of Hyatt Credit Card : This card earns 4 World of Hyatt points at Hyatt properties worldwide , 2 points per $1 spent on local transit and commuting expenses, at restaurants, at fitness clubs and on gym memberships, and on airline tickets purchased directly with the airline. Plus you’ll earn 1 point per $1 on all your other purchases.

hotel tourist fee

Here’s one of our favorite credit cards that earn Hilton Honors points:

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass ® Card

An excellent high-earning Hilton credit card that comes with perks like Hilton Honors Gold status and up to $200 in Hilton credits every year.

If you’re someone who loves traveling and loves staying in Hilton hotels, adding a co-branded Hilton hotel card to your wallet is almost a no-brainer. From automatic Hilton elite status to up to $200 in Hilton credits every year, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass ® Card can be a great fit for Hilton loyalists looking to up their travel game.

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  • Earn 155,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass ® Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
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  • Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio.
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Bottom Line: If you would like to avoid resort fees, book an award stay with Hyatt or Hilton hotels and the fees will be waived.

Having elite status with a hotel can be great, and one of the perks you may be able to enjoy is waived resort fees.

If you’re a Hyatt Globalist member, you’ll enjoy waived resort fees on all stays! This top tier status comes with lots of other benefits, like room upgrades and free breakfast , making it a desirable status for any Hyatt fan.

You can earn Hyatt Globalist status by staying 60 nights at Hyatt hotels, by earning 100,000 base points, or by hosting 20 meetings or events. If all of that seems daunting to you, check out how you can u se the Hyatt credit card to help you earn Globalist status.

Even if your hotel status level doesn’t offer waived resort fees as a perk, it can’t hurt to ask the hotel to waive the fees anyways.

Bottom Line: Regardless of your elite status or how you paid for your room, try asking the hotel to waive the resort fees. While this method probably won’t work a majority of the time, it can never hurt to ask!

Resort fees are an unpleasant reality of traveling. They can add a lot to your final hotel bill without adding a lot of value. Plus, they are sometimes tricky to identify since some hotel chains bury them in the rate details instead of clearly identifying them.

While there’s been a lot of push back from travelers recently, unfortunately, resort fees are here to say for now. Until then, you can grin and bear it, find a hotel that doesn’t come with a resort fee, or try out a method to avoid resort fees like booking an award stay or using your elite status.

What type of experience have you had with resort fees? Were you able to get them waived?

The information regarding The World of Hyatt Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees for The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass ® Card, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i avoid resort fees.

In order to avoid resort fees, you can book an award stay with Hyatt or Hilton, earn Hyatt Globalist status, or choose a hotel that doesn’t come with resort fees.

Is a resort fee per person?

Generally, resort fees are charged per room, not per person. However, there are some instances when a resort fee will be charged per person. That’s why it’s important to read the resort fee disclosure information carefully so you know exactly what type of fee you’ll be paying.

What is a resort fee?

A resort fee, also called a destination, amenity, or facility fee, is a charge by hotels that is meant to cover a wide range of extra amenities including pool use, gym access, parking, phone calls, Wi-Fi, newspapers, shuttle service, and more. You’ll find these fees in resort-style hotels and even in hotels in some big cities like Las Vegas and New York.

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About Katie Seemann

Katie has been in the points and miles game since 2015 and started her own blog in 2016. She’s been freelance writing since then and her work has been featured in publications like Travel + Leisure, Forbes Advisor, and Fortune Recommends.

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What is a resort fee and how to avoid it on your next trip?

hotel tourist fee

Have you ever checked into a hotel and been caught off guard by a resort fee? Don’t worry, it’s happened to the best of us. And what is a resort fee? A hotel resort fee is an additional charge to cover the cost of various services and amenities that guests are entitled to during their stay. When booking a hotel, you should understand and budget for resort fees, so you won’t be surprised the next time you check-in. To help you navigate this, I've put together a breakdown of what they include and how to avoid them. With this information, you'll be able to make the most informed decision when booking your next weekend away.

In this post

What is a resort fee, anyway?

Why do hotels charge a resort fee, what services and amenities do resort fees cover.

  • What is a destination fee and destination amenity fee?
  • Hotels with the worst resort fees
  • Hotels without resort fees
  • Other hidden costs and fees

How to avoid resort fees: tips for travelers

A couple walking across the tiled floor of a resort with their luggage in tow.

When booking a room, it's important to keep in mind that the price you see advertised may not tell the whole story – I had to learn this one the hard way! Increasingly hotels and resorts are charging a separate resort fee in addition to the room rate and taxes, which can be frustrating if not infuriating to the guest.

The intent behind the resort fee is to cover the cost of providing certain amenities to guests, such as the pool or fitness center, Wi-Fi, or transportation services. While these services certainly enhance the guest experience, it can sometimes feel like an unwelcome surprise when it's added to the bill. Nowadays, the average price of a resort fee is around $30, and it’s typically charged per night, not per stay – yikes!

The hotel industry is a tough business. With the rise of Airbnb and other alternative accommodations, hotel and resort owners have told me they had no choice but to come up with different ways to remain competitive. This keeps the room rates appealing to potential guests, encouraging them to book without considering the final price once other fees are added.

I’ve definitely fallen for this game before. In a rush to book a last-minute accommodation on a trip, I simply looked at the room rate and didn’t think to look at the fine print of added fees and taxes. It stings. Although this is now mostly common practice, you can use KAYAK price dropdown menu to avoid any surprises.

A swimming pool reflects the poolside umbrellas, palm trees, and the scorching sun.

These fees go towards covering various services and amenities that are offered to enhance your hotel experience. This could include access to fitness centers, pools, and lounges, as well as free Wi-Fi and parking. In addition, these fees may also go towards providing complimentary breakfast, an airport shuttle service, and daily newspapers. Ever been impressed with the diverse range of services and amenities available at a hotel? This is what the resort fee is meant to cover.

What is not included in a resort fee?

However, you can’t assume that a resort fee is the only extra cash you might have to part with on top of your room rate. Additional services such as spa treatments, room service and other meals, or valet parking usually incur extra charges. It's best to check with your hotel or resort ahead of time to understand what is and isn't covered by the resort fee.

What is a destination fee & what is a destination amenity fee?

While resort fees have become common practice now, you might be confused by other terms that you see pop up as well. Resort fee, destination fee, and destination amenity fee are all used interchangeably by different hotels and resorts. Generally, resort fees are typically charged by resorts and destination fees or destination amenity fees are charged by hotels for the same thing; the variety of amenities and services on offer.

In rare circumstances, you might see a resort fee and a destination fee charged at the same accommodation. This is usually done by hotels and resorts located in popular tourist destinations, who are capitalizing not only on their amenities but also their specific location. It's important to look for the breakdown of fees carefully when booking to understand exactly what you're paying for and why.

What hotels have the worst resort fees?

A park covered in dense forest along a cluster of city buildings.

Most of the big hotel chains now have some sort of resort fee. However, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts had one of the highest average fees relative to room rates, closely followed by Hyatt and IHG Hotels. Wyndham’s resort fees typically range from $30-50 per night, while Hyatt has an average fee of $50.

But it also depends heavily on location. Cities like Miami, Las Vegas, and New York typically boast the highest average fees, with some high-end resorts charging over $100 per night in resort fees in these cities.

Finding hotel chains without resort fees

It’s almost impossible to find any of the major hotel and resort chains not charging resort fees these days. However, the best way to sift through your options is to use a tool like KAYAK’s price dropdown menu. You can choose whether you want to display the nightly base price (default), base rate + local taxes and fees or total stay cost. This way you can see which hotels aren’t charging extra fees.

Otherwise, using travel reward programs or hotel loyalty programs is the best way to book a hotel without paying resort fees. For example, Hyatt waives resort fees when guests book with loyalty points, as does Hilton Honors. Check your favorite hotel’s loyalty program next time you want to avoid resort fees on your trip and you might find you can be rewarded with sticking to the same chain.

Other hidden fees travelers may encounter

Yes, there’s more. In fine print underneath the base room rate, you may see more than one cost tacked onto the end. While resort fees are commonplace, so are other taxes and fees for certain destinations and services. Tourist taxes, early check-in fees, additional guest fees, and strict cancellation fees are all extra costs you may encounter when checking into a hotel.

Tourist tax

People sitting under the shade of trees along the banks of a river.

A tourist tax is an extra fee charged at your accommodation that is typically imposed by the government. This type of tax can vary from country to country and even within different regions of a country. It is usually assessed as a percentage of the total bill or it can also be a set price per person.

Tourist taxes are becoming increasingly popular to combat over-tourism and its impacts. European countries have a strong tradition of implementing the tax, but it’s now being rolled out across Asian countries too. The funds collected from a tourist tax are often used to support local infrastructure and other services that directly benefit tourists, such as street cleaning and road maintenance.

It’s particularly common in places that see a high amount of visitors, such as Paris and Lyon in France and Rome and Venice in Italy. Otherwise, it can also apply across a whole country, such as in Switzerland and Greece.

Early check-in/late check-out fees

Many hotels will charge an extra fee if you want to check in early or check out late. Depending on how early or how late, you may even be required to book additional nights, which can add up quickly and increase the total cost of your stay.

Additional guest fees

A group of senior friends strolls by a shimmering pool as they arrive at their accommodation.

If you booked for two people and decided to show up with three, most hotels will hit you with an additional guest fee. This can range from $20 up to $50 per night depending on the hotel.

Cancellation fees

Most hotels will charge a fee or percentage of your booking if you cancel your reservation within a certain amount of time prior to your arrival date. Some hotels may even charge a fee if you change your reservation after it has been made, so it's important to read the fine print.

A happy elderly couple using a laptop that sits on a wooden table.

If you’re sick of hotels surprising you with hidden fees when checking in, fortunately, there are some ways to avoid or minimize these extra costs. While most hotels and resorts are adding resort fees, you can still avoid paying them with a bit of research and savvy travel tips.

  • Research, research, research: Before booking your hotel, make sure to check what fees the resort may charge. Many resorts will list their fees on their websites or through the online booking platform, so make sure to read the fine print before you book.
  • Ask questions: If you're not sure what kind of fees may be charged at a particular resort, don't hesitate to ask the staff either before or during your stay.
  • Look for special deals and packages: Many resorts may offer special discounts that can help reduce or eliminate resort fees altogether. There may also be packages that throw in additional services and amenities for a low cost. Check directly on the hotel’s website for deals or stay and play packages.
  • Use filters when searching on booking sites: You can use filters when searching on KAYAK and choose whether to display the nightly base rate or the total stay cost including taxes and fees. This way you’ll know exactly what you’ll be paying when you check in without any surprises.
  • Join a loyalty program: Many resorts offer loyalty programs that can help reduce or eliminate certain types of resort fees when you book with them. By staying at your favorite hotel chains repeatedly, it’s a great way to save money on your next vacation and ensure that you don't get hit with hefty resort fees each time.
  • Use a rewards program: Similar to a loyalty program, there are various travel reward programs, like those linked to certain credit cards. These can help you rack up points when booking flights and accommodation which can be redeemed at the property. Bonuses often lead to a reduction or scrapping of resort fees or adding services to your stay.
  • Negotiate: Don't be afraid to negotiate with the staff at the resort. If you don’t plan on using some of the amenities for example, you could try to work out a reduced resort fee. You might be surprised at how flexible they can be when it comes to pricing, if you ask nicely.

In conclusion

Knowledge is the key for saving your hard-earned money. By understanding why hotels charge resort fees and knowing how to avoid them, you can make an educated booking for your next getaway. While resort fees are the new standard mandatory cost on top of your room rate, take advantage of promotional packages, loyalty programs and special offers to avoid paying exuberant fees. And, don't forget when finding the best place to stay on KAYAK , you can use price filters on hotel searches and features like Price Alerts which can help you find transparent deals quickly and easily.

A young couple standing at the building entrance with their suitcases.

What’s the difference between a resort vs hotel?

Although they seem interchangeable, hotels and resorts actually have distinct features that set them apart. While hotels offer limited amenities in the form of rooms and basic facilities, resorts provide a more comprehensive vacation experience with additional facilities such as spas, golf courses, water sports, and dining options. Resorts cater to those seeking a relaxing all-in-one getaway, while hotels are suitable for travelers who require a comfortable place to stay without much extra. To find out more, check out KAYAK's article on what all-inclusive actually means .

Can you deny paying the resort fee?

While it may be frustrating to see this extra charge, it is usually non-negotiable. Some hotels may allow you to opt-out of certain amenities included in the fee, but they will not waive it entirely. Since the resort fee is typically disclosed at the time of booking, it is important to read the fine print.

Do hotels ever waive resort fees?

It’s not uncommon for hotels or resorts to waive their fees under certain circumstances. Most commonly, hotels will waive resort fees for those enrolled in their loyalty rewards program or for guests who have experienced inconveniences during their stay, such as a noisy room or a delay in check-in. It's important to note that it’s ultimately at their discretion.

How to avoid pet fees at hotels?

Navigating the world of pet-friendly accommodations can be tricky, especially when it comes to avoiding the added expense of pet fees. While each hotel may have their own set of rules and policies, there are a few tips that can help keep your wallet happy while traveling with your furry friend. The best way is to search for hotels that do not charge pet fees or offer specials for pet owners using KAYAK’s pet-friendly hotel search feature. It's also important to remember to be a responsible pet owner and clean up after your pet to avoid incurring any additional charges. With a little bit of research and preparation, you can enjoy a memorable and cost-effective stay with your beloved pet.

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Checking into a hotel? Prepare for hefty fees and deposits.

These days, check-in time brings a confusing mess of charges.

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Last month, Lynette Eastman, general manager of the Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club in Honolulu , delivered some shocking news to a guest. It concerned her bill.

The vacationer had called the Waikiki property requesting the total amount of an upcoming stay. She specifically asked about a resort fee, the sneaky charge that hotels often slip in at the last minute of the booking process and bury among the other taxes and fees. Eastman told her that the Surfjack did not have a resort fee, though that was not always the case: The hotel had suspended the $26.18 fee in spring 2020 but never restored it, even after nearby properties reinstated theirs.

“That was great, because I got to experience her surprise,” Eastman said of the guest’s happy reaction. “Do I think a lot of hotels are going to start waiving fees? Possibly, if the business is in a location that doesn’t pick up, like in Hawaii . But my guess is that the fees will continue to be charged.”

5 ways to be a good visitor on Maui as tourism reopens

According to the American Hotel and Lodging Association , roughly 6 percent of U.S. properties exact a mandatory fee that hotels claim covers a grab bag of perks, such as WiFi, bike rentals, a fitness center or a food and beverage “credit.” Yet the fee seems inescapable in many vacation destinations and is just one more financial burden placed on guests at check-in.

Hotels pile on so many charges, you might feel as if you need an accountant to decipher your bill. In addition to the room rate, there may be a bundle of city, state and local taxes, plus a resort fee, which goes by many names and is also taxed. During check-in, the front desk employee will place a hold on your credit card for incidentals. The amount can range from a couple of Jacksons to hundreds of dollars per night. Guests with credit cards won’t feel the pinch, but people who use debit cards cannot access that amount during their stay and may need to be careful with their expenditures.

As long as you don’t trash your room or drain the minibar without paying, you will get the money back. This is not the case with resort fees. Even if you don’t use the WiFi, bike, fitness center or credit, you’re still stuck with the fee.

“We can perceive both of these as friction points and annoyances for the hotel guest,” said Mehmet Erdem , a professor of hospitality at the University of Nevada at Las Vegas, “though technically they’re separate accounting-wise and procedural.”

Fees by many names

Like a shifty character in a true-crime novel, the fee often hides in the shadows and goes by several aliases, such as resort, amenity, facility or destination . Some hotels also tack on a “room safe fee,” though the charge for having a safety box in your room is significantly less (a couple of dollars a day) than the amenity fee. (According to an analysis commissioned by AHLA, an average of $26 per night.)

Chekitan Dev , a professor at Cornell University’s Nolan School of Hotel Administration, dates the current incarnation to 1997. Nearly two decades later, Lauren Wolfe founded Kill Resort Fees after a Key West hotel refused to hand over her room key until she forked over an extra $20.

“Over a decade ago, we started to see resort fees in places like Hawaii, and then they started to creep into places like Las Vegas,” Wolfe said. “Then it spread like wildfire.”

Resort fees are in the hot seat. Here are 10 of the weirdest.

This summer, Wolfe turned up the heat as chief legal officer for Travelers United , a consumer advocacy group. In August, the nonprofit organization sued Hyatt and Sonesta hotels, alleging false advertising and deceptive fees. The following month, it filed a class-action lawsuit against Hilton.

“These hotels are not paying attention to any sort of law in their state, whether it be basic advertising laws that protect consumers from unfair, deceptive practices or alcohol laws that forbid people from essentially being forced to buy alcohol,” said Wolfe, referring to properties that include a cocktail in their resort fee.

Since 2019, state attorneys general in a handful of states and D.C. have been suing some of the world’s biggest hotel chains for allegedly violating consumer protection laws. Some of the cases are still ongoing, such as Nebraska and Hilton and D.C. and Marriott . Others have been settled, such as the lawsuit that pitted attorneys general in Colorado, Oregon, Pennsylvania and Texas against Choice Hotels. As part of the September deal, the chain agreed to disclose all mandatory fees on the first page of its booking website and include them in the total price.

Chip and Joanna are still fixin’ up Waco. This time, it’s a hotel.

This year, state and federal legislators also started tackling junk fees. In July, two U.S. senators introduced the bipartisan Hotel Fees Transparency Act . In October, California passed a pair of similar bills, including a law that will ban the hotel industry’s deceptive practice of drip pricing, in which companies list a partial price and does not reveal additional charges until later in the purchasing process. It goes into effect next July.

Last year, the Biden administration called out these fees and rallied government agencies, Congress and the private sector to curtail the unfair practice. In October, the president revisited the issue, introducing a proposed Federal Trade Commission law that will require businesses, including hotels, to be upfront with their prices. The agency is accepting public comments through Jan. 8. Since Nov. 9, more than 20,200 people have submitted complaints.

“I think if the pressure from the government and the regulations and the state attorney general offices and the lawsuits creates enough of a headache, then the industry will do something collectively about it,” Erdem said.

What hotels aren’t talking about

The American Hotel and Lodging Association as well as individual hotels, such as Hilton, have expressed their support for legislation that requires transparency in pricing. However, the conversation about resort fees seems to be ignoring some glaring issues.

For one, the hotels are forcing guests to pay for services or perks they might not want or need. (When was the last time you made a long-distance phone call on a hotel room phone?) On their websites, most properties bury the list of amenities associated with the fee, so consumers have to pick through the small print. Even when they find it, the descriptions can be indecipherable. Finally, a mystery surrounds the number itself.

In a sampling of hotels in Washington, the amenity fee with tax ran the gamut, from zero (CitizenM, the Jefferson, Conrad Washington) to $23.19 (Washington Hilton), $28.99 (Marriott Marquis) and about $35 (the George, Yotel). The incidentals and security deposit was equally vast, ranging from $50 at the Days Inn to $200 at Hotel Washington.

Travelers might discover higher charges in swankier destinations or at luxurious properties with fancy decor. At the Aria , on the Las Vegas Strip, the resort fee is $51 and the incidental hold runs from $150 for a standard room to $500 for a villa. Grand Beach Hotel Surfside in Florida hits guests with a $64.38 resort fee; the credit card hold is kinder, at $100 a night.

The hotels contacted for comment declined to explain the calculations. One can only guess the financial outlay for, say, printing assistance at the front desk, a downloadable self-guided walking tour or a pool chair.

Why are hotel showers so ridiculously complicated?

“It’s a black-box, let’s-see-what-sticks approach,” said Dev, adding that hotels typically consider supply, demand and competition when formulating the fee.

During a trip to New York City, the professor could not fathom why the Even Hotel in Midtown East charged $25 (plus tax) for what he called “overpriced and useless amenities.” He and his wife passed on the Citi Bike passes (“I’d have to have a death wish”), local and long-distance calls (“This is a joke”), access to Peloton classes (“We were not visiting New York City to take a stationary bike lesson”), package handling (“Huh?”) and laundry. (“With the average stay being one to two nights, my garment might not make it back.”)

They did, however, take advantage of the free welcome drink: two bottles of water, valued at $2.

To avoid fees, ask nicely, then contact an attorney general

It’s not hopeless. You can dodge resort fees.

First, use your purchasing power. A NerdWallet analysis looked at the hotels with the highest average fees relative to room rate. Wyndham ranked first, with fees costing between $30 and $50 per night, followed by Hyatt, IHG, Hilton and Marriott. Best Western, which is not really known as a playground of perks, came in last, with the lowest fee.

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You can also shop around for fee-free hotels. Kill Resort Fees lists hotels with fees in 15 destinations, so avoid those. (Look under “Offenders.”) In our D.C. sample, more than half did not charge a resort fee. On Surfjack’s website, the hotel promotes its lack of fees. A pop-up box exclaims, “Wipe out fees!”

“We are definitely seeing a trend of hotels distinguishing themselves by not offering them at all,” said Sally French, lead writer with NerdWallet.

If you are a loyalty hotel member, you can avoid the fees by booking with points, depending on the program’s policy. Also, the higher up you go on the status pole, the fewer extraneous fees you will have to pay. Some travel credit cards will also reimburse resort fees.

In your kindest voice, you can also ask the front desk to remove the fee, especially if an amenity or service is not available during your stay.

“If you’re checking in at 11 p.m. and checking out at 7 the next morning and you’re just using the hotel as a place to sleep, maybe that hypothetical trolley ride doesn’t even run during that period,” said French, referring to a perk at the Marriott Marquis. “It doesn’t hurt to tell the desk there was no way you could have taken that trolley ride and ask them to waive the resort fee.”

Hidden ‘junk’ fees are infuriating. Tell the FTC your story.

Wolfe does not recommend pushing the issue. After two times, she says to quit. The next step is to send your complaint to the attorney general who serves your home state or the hotel’s. You can pick only one, so choose the location with the strongest consumer protection laws.

“In Washington, D.C., it works great,” she said, “but it does not work in states where the attorneys general are not taking this issue seriously. A good example would be Nevada. We have not yet heard of one person having success with them.”

An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated that Even Hotel was in Times Square. It was in Midtown East. The article has been corrected.

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How to Spot Those Pesky (and Expensive) Lodging Fees

Some charges are up, some down, others more explicit as the lodging industry tries to recover from the pandemic.

hotel tourist fee

By Elaine Glusac

In its economic wake, the pandemic has scrambled travel fees. On one hand, it pushed airlines to drop change fees on most fares as virtually everyone who had a ticket in early 2020 looked to cancel. On the other, extra cleaning pushed fees up in vacation rental homes.

But the pandemic certainly isn’t the only source of added fees, especially when it comes to accommodations. Travelers have long complained about the shock of finding a deal on a hotel for $100 only to learn it doesn’t include the $45-a-night resort fee, a charge undergoing new legal scrutiny.

Though the dust has yet to settle on industry norms, the following are updates on unwelcome charges that travelers may see on their next lodging bill.

Exposing resort fees

According to the Federal Trade Commission, resort fees — supplements charged for access to things like swimming pools and Wi-Fi — have been around since 1997. The hotel industry defends them as a way to keep costs down for the individual by spreading them to everyone (think of one person paying the internet tab, versus sharing it with all guests).

Resort fees are not common. According to the American Hotel and Lodging Association , only 7 percent of hotels in the United States charge them. Still, they irk travelers, and earlier this year, the nonprofit advocacy group Travelers United sued MGM Resorts International for deceptively advertising rates that don’t include the mandatory fees, which can run $35 to $45 a day at its Las Vegas properties.

“Hotels have now made fees mandatory. If they’re mandatory, they should be included in the rate,” said Charles Leocha, the president and co-founder of Travelers United.

He added that during the pandemic, many hotels closed the sort of amenities, like pools, that resort fees were said to cover, yet continued to collect the fees. “In reality, there’s no connection,” he said.

In a win for consumers, Marriott International recently settled a lawsuit brought by Pennsylvania’s attorney general over its resort fees, agreeing to disclose fees along with rates. The hotel company responded that it will be “working over the next several months to update the room rate display in accordance with that agreement,” according to a statement.

Rather than bundling them into room rates, many hotels have made resort fees more explicit. The Phoenician, a Marriott Luxury Collection resort in Scottsdale, Ariz., for example, has a page on its website indicating what guests get for their daily fee of $45 per room: Wi-Fi (worth, it states, $14.95), morning yoga ($30), one hour of tennis ($75), one hour of pickleball ($75), bikes ($35) and a craft beer tasting.

Hotels have yet to recover from the pandemic — according to the A.H.L.A., room revenue is expected to be down nearly $44 billion in 2021 compared to 2019 — potentially making fees more attractive.

“My research shows that large, full-service, resort hotels have been hurt particularly badly by Covid, and they’re still reeling from its effects,” wrote John W. O’Neill, a professor and the director of the Hospitality Real Estate Strategy Group at Pennsylvania State University, in an email. He added that some have adopted “partitioned pricing,” the kinds of fees that are mandatory but earmarked for a service, like baggage fees at airlines or resort fees that cover Wi-Fi and more at hotels.

For now, some have put fees on hold. The new Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites , where amenities include a rooftop pool, has waived the standard resort fee, and charges $9.95 for basic Wi-Fi and $14.95 for faster service. It doesn’t plan to add the $39 charge until 2023, which will then also cover beach yoga and loaner bikes.

Mohonk Mountain House in New York’s Hudson Valley recently dropped its 15 percent administration fee. To cover the costs of rising wages and supplies, it plans to increase rates in 2022 by about 7 percent.

Cleaning more, paying more

Though intense cleaning has proved not nearly as important as mask-wearing and air circulation in preventing the spread of Covid-19, nonetheless fortified cleaning protocols remain in place across the accommodation spectrum. Among vacation rentals, the extra cleaning required of the pandemic took more time and materials, pushing guest fees up.

“When the world opened up again, the cleaning requirements needed to be improved,” said Joseph DiTomaso, the founder and chief executive of AllTheRooms , a vacation rental market analytics firm, which found that cleaning fees have been rising since 2017 but accelerated after October 2020, when travel began to rebound. “It’s an incremental cost being passed through.”

Guesty , a short-term rental management platform used by thousands of hosts, found that cleaning fees rose 12 percent in the United States since 2019.

Brian Egan, the chief executive of Evolve , a vacation rental company, said the rule of thumb for the fees, which are usually broken out on the bill, is about $50 a bedroom.

Rental platforms also charge a service fee to support their business operations. Airbnb says most guests pay less than 14.2 percent of the booking subtotal as its service fee.

In its advice to hosts, Vrbo recommends keeping fees to two or less and under 50 percent of the nightly rate, stating, “Excessive fees can greatly reduce a traveler’s likelihood of making a booking.”

Rental companies justify fees that incur costs for the host, such as pet fees to cover additional cleaning. But they flag bogus fees for things like linens and kitchenware.

“I always encourage consumers to go through all the way to where they can book it and it’s in the cart, as we say in the online world, so that you’re seeing the total cost,” Mr. Egan said. “Sometimes things are getting added in as you work toward the booking screen, so your first look at the nightly rate might not reflect the bottom line.”

Vacation home taxes

Taxes that vacation home renters pay vary widely by country, state, county and municipality. These are growing in some communities where the pandemic exacerbated a housing shortage as travelers, free to work or study anywhere, moved into short-term rentals.

In some mountain towns, more visitors renting homes and apartments made it harder for seasonal employees to find housing. In Colorado, several towns recently passed new taxes on short-term rentals. Residents of Crested Butte voted to increase a short-term rental tax to fund local housing initiatives. According to Airbnb’s page on Colorado taxes , several communities tax stays of less than 30 days. If you can stay for a month, you wouldn’t pay that tax.

Short-term renters may expect to see more of these taxes as the playing field between hotels and rentals levels out and destinations seek to remedy housing shortages. New York City, for example, recently passed a bill that would require short-term rentals to be registered with the city as it grapples with a housing crisis.

“This is nationwide, and it’s been the case for a while, but the focus on lodging tax has increased a lot in the last five to 10 years as the industry itself has mainstreamed,” said Mr. Egan of Evolve.

Dodging fees

Travelers ultimately are in the driver’s seat when it comes to fees. Most hotels don’t charge a resort fee, though travelers may give up extras often covered by the fee, including Nespresso in the room and free use of bicycles. The website ResortFeeChecker.com lists hotels with fees in popular resort destinations and what the charges include.

Most all-inclusive resorts live by their labels. Palace Resorts , which operates 10 all-inclusives in Mexico and Jamaica, does not charge a resort fee though it offers amenities like water parks and kayaks. Guests staying five nights or more have a Covid test for their return home included.

If your hotel has a free loyalty club, join it to gain access to perks. The new Virgin Hotels New Orleans , where amenities include a swimming pool and fitness center, does not charge its guests a service fee, and membership in its loyalty club, which is free, includes complimentary cocktails during a daily “Spirit Hour.”

Look for a break on fees from independent hotels unaffiliated with major brands. The boutique RT Lodge in Maryville, Tenn., for example, includes breakfast and Wi-Fi without an extra fee. On the other end of the size spectrum, the lavish Breakers in Palm Beach, Fla., also forgoes resort fees.

Don’t like a fee? Speak up. The tent-based Terramor Outdoor Resort in Bar Harbor, Maine, dropped its $10 a bundle charge for firewood — now complimentary — in response to guest feedback saying that campfires were part of the appeal of staying there.

For vacation home renters, longer stays amortize the one-time cleaning fee, and many properties provide discounts for rentals of a week or a month. At a cabin in Redcliff, Colo., longer-stay discounts run up to roughly 20 percent on the rental charge, a generous incentive. Most discounts that turned up on a spot check around the country, such as a log cabin in Michigan , were closer to 10 percent.

Even then, read every notice as you click through during booking. To fulfill a city requirement, an apartment in Venice on Airbnb, for example, charges 4 euros a person each night for a maximum of five nights, which must be paid in cash.

Elaine Glusac writes the Frugal Traveler column. Follow her on Instagram: @eglusac .

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Understanding Hotel Fees and Surcharges: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding Hotel Fees and Surcharges: A Comprehensive Guide

The Different Types of Hotel Fees and Surcharges Explained

When planning a trip, it’s important to consider all the costs involved, including hotel fees and surcharges. These additional charges can sometimes catch travelers off guard, but with a little knowledge, you can be prepared and avoid any surprises. In this comprehensive guide, we will explain the different types of hotel fees and surcharges you may encounter during your stay.

One common type of fee is the resort fee. This fee is charged by many hotels, especially those located in popular tourist destinations. The resort fee typically covers amenities such as pool access, fitness center usage, and Wi-Fi. It’s important to note that the resort fee is often not included in the initial room rate, so be sure to factor it into your budget when comparing hotel prices.

Another fee you may come across is the parking fee. Many hotels charge for parking, especially in urban areas where parking spaces are limited. This fee can vary greatly depending on the location and the hotel’s policies. Some hotels offer complimentary parking, while others charge a daily or hourly rate. If you plan on driving during your trip, be sure to inquire about the parking fees before making your reservation.

In addition to resort fees and parking fees, some hotels may also charge a destination fee. This fee is often associated with luxury or boutique hotels and is meant to cover the cost of providing unique amenities or experiences. For example, a hotel located near a popular attraction may charge a destination fee to include tickets or discounts for guests. While this fee can add to the overall cost of your stay, it may also provide added value and convenience.

One surcharge that is often overlooked is the early check-in or late check-out fee. If you arrive at your hotel before the standard check-in time or need to extend your stay past the usual check-out time, you may be charged an additional fee. This fee is typically charged per hour and can vary depending on the hotel’s policies. It’s always a good idea to check with the hotel in advance if you anticipate needing an early check-in or late check-out.

Some hotels may also charge a fee for additional guests. This fee is typically applied when there are more than two adults staying in a room. The fee can vary depending on the hotel’s policies and may be charged per person or per night. If you are traveling with a larger group, be sure to inquire about any additional guest fees before making your reservation.

Lastly, it’s important to be aware of any cancellation or change fees that may apply to your reservation. Many hotels have specific policies regarding cancellations or changes made within a certain timeframe. These fees can range from a percentage of the total reservation cost to a flat fee. It’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the hotel’s cancellation policy before making a reservation, especially if your travel plans are subject to change.

In conclusion, understanding hotel fees and surcharges is essential when planning a trip. By being aware of the different types of fees you may encounter, you can budget accordingly and avoid any surprises. Remember to consider resort fees, parking fees, destination fees, early check-in or late check-out fees, additional guest fees, and cancellation or change fees. With this comprehensive guide, you can navigate the world of hotel fees with confidence and make informed decisions for your next trip.

How to Avoid Unexpected Hotel Fees and Surcharges

Understanding Hotel Fees and Surcharges: A Comprehensive Guide

First and foremost, it’s important to do your research before booking a hotel. Take the time to read reviews and check the hotel’s website for any information on fees and surcharges. Some hotels may have a resort fee, which covers amenities such as Wi-Fi, pool access, or fitness center usage. While these fees can be frustrating, they are often disclosed upfront, allowing you to factor them into your budget.

Another way to avoid unexpected fees is to book directly with the hotel. Third-party booking sites may offer lower rates, but they often have hidden fees that can catch you off guard. By booking directly with the hotel, you can ensure that you are aware of all the charges upfront and avoid any surprises when you check out.

When making your reservation, be sure to ask about any additional fees or surcharges that may apply. Some hotels charge for parking, while others may have fees for early check-in or late check-out. By asking about these fees in advance, you can make an informed decision and avoid any unexpected expenses.

Once you arrive at the hotel, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the amenities and services that are included in your room rate. Some hotels offer complimentary breakfast, while others may have a business center or concierge service. By taking advantage of these included amenities, you can save money and avoid paying for services that you don’t need.

It’s also important to be mindful of your usage during your stay. Many hotels charge for in-room amenities such as minibars or premium movie channels. If you don’t plan on using these services, it’s best to avoid them altogether to avoid any additional charges. Additionally, be cautious of any additional charges that may be added to your bill during your stay. Keep track of any purchases or services that you request to ensure that you are only charged for what you actually use.

When it comes time to check out, review your bill carefully to ensure that all charges are accurate. If you notice any discrepancies or unexpected fees, don’t hesitate to speak with the front desk staff. They will be able to address any concerns and make any necessary adjustments to your bill.

In conclusion, understanding hotel fees and surcharges is essential for avoiding unexpected expenses during your stay. By doing your research, booking directly with the hotel, and asking about additional fees in advance, you can ensure that you are aware of all charges upfront. Additionally, taking advantage of included amenities and being mindful of your usage can help you avoid unnecessary expenses. Finally, reviewing your bill carefully before checking out will allow you to address any discrepancies or unexpected fees. With these tips in mind, you can enjoy a stress-free stay at your chosen hotel without any surprises.

Understanding the Impact of Hotel Fees and Surcharges on Your Travel Budget

When planning a trip, it’s important to consider all the costs involved, including hotel fees and surcharges. These additional expenses can have a significant impact on your travel budget, so it’s essential to understand what they are and how they can affect your overall expenses.

One common fee that many hotels charge is the resort fee. This fee is typically a daily charge that covers amenities such as pool access, fitness center usage, and Wi-Fi. While these amenities may be appealing, it’s important to consider whether you will actually use them during your stay. If you don’t plan on taking advantage of these facilities, it may be worth looking for a hotel that doesn’t charge a resort fee to save some money.

Another fee to be aware of is the parking fee. Many hotels charge a daily fee for parking, especially in urban areas where parking is limited. If you’re planning on renting a car during your trip, it’s important to factor in this additional expense when budgeting for your accommodations. Some hotels offer complimentary parking, so it’s worth considering these options if you’re looking to save some money.

In addition to fees, hotels may also impose surcharges for certain services or amenities. For example, some hotels charge a fee for early check-in or late check-out. If you have a specific arrival or departure time, it’s important to check with the hotel in advance to see if they charge any additional fees for these services. By planning your travel schedule accordingly, you can avoid these surcharges and save some money.

Another common surcharge is the minibar fee. Many hotels stock their rooms with snacks and beverages, but these items often come with a hefty price tag. If you’re looking to save money, it’s best to avoid indulging in the minibar and instead opt for snacks and drinks from local stores or restaurants.

It’s also important to be aware of any additional fees that may be added to your bill during your stay. For example, some hotels charge a fee for using the in-room safe or for receiving packages. These fees can quickly add up, so it’s important to review your bill carefully before checking out to ensure there are no unexpected charges.

To avoid any surprises, it’s a good idea to research the hotel’s policies and fees before making a reservation. Many hotels provide this information on their websites, or you can call the hotel directly to inquire about any additional fees or surcharges. By doing your homework in advance, you can budget accordingly and avoid any unexpected expenses.

In conclusion, understanding hotel fees and surcharges is essential for managing your travel budget effectively. By being aware of these additional expenses and planning accordingly, you can ensure that your trip stays within your desired budget. Remember to consider whether you will actually use the amenities covered by resort fees, factor in parking fees if you’re renting a car, and be mindful of any surcharges for services or amenities. By doing so, you can make informed decisions and have a stress-free travel experience.

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Understanding Hotel Taxes, Resort Fees & Deposits For Incidentals

Hotel taxes.

So you got a fantastic rate on that hotel room, right? Don’t forget the taxes! Because tax codes in the United States vary from state to state (and oftentimes from county to county), the hotel taxes you’ll eventually pay will vary depending on what state AND sometimes what county you’re in. Here are some examples:

ORLANDO, FL

If your hotel is in Orlando FL , which is in Orange County FL, your hotel cost will be the price of the room, plus 6.5% sales tax + 6.0% resort/tourist tax, for a total of 12.5% (BTW that resort/tourist tax may also be called an occupancy tax, but may also be known as a lodging tax, a room tax, a sales tax, or a hotel tax).

KISSIMMEE, FL

If your hotel is in Kissimmee FL , which is in Osceola County (that’s just south of Orange County and does include a few of the resort hotels at Walt Disney World), your hotel cost will be the price of the room, plus 7.5% sales tax + 6.0% resort/tourist tax, for a total of 13.5%.

KEY WEST, FL

If you’re visiting Key West , that’s in Monroe County. The combined sales tax rate for Key West, FL is 7.5%  (the Florida state sales tax rate is currently 6%. The Monroe County sales tax rate is 1.5%). Other taxes that are included bring the total rate up to 12.5%

NEW YORK CITY

If you’re visiting New York City , the hotel tax will be:

  • New York State Sales Tax for Hotels – 4%
  • New York City Sales Tax for Hotels –  4.5%
  • MCTD (Metropolitan Commuter Transportation District) sales & use tax – 0.375%
  • NYC Hotel Room Occupancy Tax Rate –  $2 per room + 5.875%
  • New York State Hotel Unit Fee (aka Javits Center fee)  – $1.50 per unit per day

It winds up being a little less than 15% + $3.50 per day.

LAS VEGAS, NV

If you’re staying in Las Vegas, the amount of tax you will pay can vary from, not only where you are, but what your accommodations are. Guests at non-resort lodging (i.e., motels) can (might) pay as little as 10 percent, but hotel rooms on the Strip come with a 12% tax, while those in the Downtown area carry a 13% tax.

Any of those numbers could go up if you’re using a service to help you book your hotel. Not all, but some services will add another percentage for themselves, for added profit. And you can’t tell because booking services generally lump everything together into one big, vague “Taxes & Fees” category.

What Can You Do About This?

Not much. Taxes are taxes and no one gets out of paying taxes ;-). However you can be an educated consumer and before you book, start Googling! Be pro-active and read the fine print and/or email/call to find out if the rate you see online is what you’ll actually pay or if there’ll be taxes added on, either when you pay online or when (SURPRISE!) you get to the hotel. Go to the hotel’s website and see what their price is in comparison to what your booking agent quoted you. Find out what the hotel taxes are for the state/city/county your hotel is in (i.e. Google CHICAGO HOTEL TAXES). You’ll still have to pay, but at least you won’t be surprised. And nope, even if you live in another country, you’re not exempt from paying taxes on your hotel room. If you’re cheeky enough to ask and the hotel worker knocks off a percentage, it’s not because you live outside of the United States – they’re just being nice.

RESORT FEES

Resort fees are not the same as taxes. A resort fee, also called a facility fee, a destination fee, an amenity fee or a resort charge, is a separate mandatory fee that a guest is charged by an accommodation provided, along with a base room rate and its tax. Most resort fees are taxed.

Resort fees are illegal in many countries. In other countries, including the United States, there’s no specific legislation that either allows or outlaws resort fees, nor how much they can be, so resorts and freestanding hotels have taken to charging them as a way to increase how much money they get for a room. The average resort fee is about $25 per day but can vary greatly from location to location and the resort fee can actually COST MORE THAT THE HOTEL RATE! (You might find an online sale rate of $49 per night and then pay $100 per night resort fee. Because some places suck.)

There doesn’t appear to be rhyme or reason for who charges resort fees. Some hotels in a given chain will and some won’t. The Disney-owned hotels in Walt Disney World (WDW) do not (although, based on a survey that went out to WDW guests a while back, apparently they were toying with the idea at some point) but the WDW Swan and Dolphin, which are on Disney property but are owned and run by Marriott, do. Yet there are other Marriott hotels that don’t charge a resort fee.

So How Did Resort Fees Start?

For years, hotels have charged guests for individual amenities at a hotel, such as for use of facilities like the gym or pool, daily newspaper delivery, etc. But they were only charged to those who wanted such extras. In the mid-late 1990s, some resort hotels began to charge mandatory fees, regardless of which facilities were actually used by the guests. This allowed the hotel to advertise a cheaper room rate because they made up the difference from the mandatory fee, so they made more money in the end.

Online hotel search and booking tools take a percentage of reservation prices and then pass the reservation on to the hotel. Therefore, a hotel loses a certain percentage from every reservation made on one of the sites. Hotels that are listed on these hotel search and booking sites don’t include their resort fee in those prices, which means the booking site doesn’t get a percentage of the resort fee.  So when the hotel collects the resort fee at check-in, separately from the rate purchased online, the hotel collects 100% of that profit.

Resort fees also affect U.S. travel agents because they (the fees, not the travel agents, LOL) can change at a hotel’s whim. Travel agents can earn commission on the advertised rate of the hotel and don’t collect a percentage of taxes or fees. Travel agencies must also legally know what the resort fee for each hotel is so they can pass that information on to their clients (failure to do so could result in a lawsuit to their agency). Unfortunately, individual travel agents have found it difficult to keep up with changing hotel resort fees.

And on top of all of this, the hotel charges you tax on the resort fee!!!

Do All Hotels Charge Resort Fees?

Thankfully, no.  However more and more places are adding them to their hotel fees every year and, of course, it’s happening moreso in the larger, more touristy, conventiony and business-related areas. In New York City, for example, only 15 hotels charged resort fees in 2016, but in 2017, over 40 of them did, in 2018, that number had increased to 85 and it’s just grown even more from there. Here are some of the worst cities and some ideas of what they charge. These are just examples – keep in mind that just because your hotel isn’t listed doesn’t mean it doesn’t charge resort fees (links are from a website that gives good background info about resort fees in general, in case you want more info):

Arizona Detroit Florida Hawaii Las Vegas New York City (the list is about halfway down the page) North Carolina San Francisco Washington D.C.

What can you do about this?

A little bit. Hotels have made resort fees mandatory (which is not to say you can’t try to argue to have them take the fees off your bill). However you can be an educated consumer and before you book, start Googling! Find out of your hotel of choice charges resort fees (i.e. Google RESORT FEES “THE NAME AND CITY OF YOUR HOTEL”) and if they do and that bothers you, stay somewhere else that doesn’t charge one (and let them know you’re not staying there BECAUSE they charge a resort fee!). Be pro-active and read the fine print and/or email/call to find out if the rate you see online is what you’ll actually pay or if there’ll be resort fees added on, either when you pay online or when (SURPRISE!) you get to the hotel (you’ll still have to pay, but at least you won’t be surprised).

DEPOSIT FOR INCIDENTALS

Many hotels request that you leave a deposit, either in cash or with a credit card, to cover incidental charges to your room. The policy ensures that if a customer leaves without paying for room service, phone calls, pay-per-view movies or mini-bar items, or if (s)he ruins any of the hotel’s property, the hotel will be covered, at least in part. The amount will vary per hotel (figure between $50 and $200 per day) and might be different if you’re paying by credit card, debit card or cash. The good thing about this deposit is that as long as you don’t wreck anything and/or don’t skip town without paying your bill, you should get the deposit back (credited onto your card, or a return of your cash) when you check out.

Hotel4

IN CONCLUSION

Staying at hotels is more expensive than ever, and taxes, fees and deposits certainly don’t help. You may not be able to avoid them, but if you do your homework, at least you’ll know what’s coming and how much it’ll be, so you won’t have any unfortunate surprises in your travels.

Feature Photo: Patrick Pelletier/ Wikimedia

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[…] Understanding hotel taxes, resort fees & deposits for incidentals when you rent a hotel room in the United States. […]

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In New York I recently stayed at the Pennsylvania hotel and they charged me 102% of the hotel rate as “taxes”. While on their website it stated twice that resort fees where included in the price shown. Thanks for the break down in New York taxes as I believe I was totally ripped off and taken advantage off due to not having the proper information. I will be reporting this as fraud to the authorities. Thank you

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Wow, I’m so sorry to hear about that! Good luck!

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The bed and breakfast I am staying at added “State of Illinois/City of Chicago Taxes and Fees (20.93%)” not only to the room nights, but also to both the incidental/damages hold and the credit card surcharge. Is that part of the deal?

The rules would vary from state to state so I’m afraid I don’t know. Sorry.

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Tourism dirham

All about the Tourism Dirham in Dubai

  • About Tourism Dirham
  • Tourism Dirham Charges
  • Tourism fee in other emirates

Disclaimer : Tourism charges have been waived off in some emirates to provide relief to the hospitality sector following the outbreak of coronavirus in the UAE.

Over the course of the last decade, Dubai has become a leading tourist destination in the world. The government of Dubai has played an active role in promoting the emirate as a global travel hub. While many landmarks and tourist destinations in Dubai offer free entry for the public, the government has levied some taxes to collect revenue that will further boost trade and tourism in the emirate. Today, we will talk about the Tourism Dirham in Dubai, as well as other tourism taxes in the country.

Tourism Dirham Dubai Tax

In 2014, The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) levied a per night tourist fee on guests staying in hotels and hotel apartments in Dubai . The additional fee was levied as per the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council.

hotel lobby

Speaking at the time of the announcement, Helal Saeed Almarri (Director General of DTCM) said:

“The introduction of the Tourism Dirham will support Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, helping to ensure our continued competitiveness on the global stage, which will be reflected positively in the growth of two of our economic pillars — trade and tourism.”

DTCM further clarified that the Tourism Dirham Dubai will be used to boost the development of the emirate’s tourism and trade sectors and enhance the image of Dubai as the world’s leading tourist destination.

Tourism Dirham Dubai Charges

The Dubai Tourism Dirham fee is as follows:

  • AED 20 for five-star hotels
  • AED 15 for four-star hotels
  • AED 10 for three-star hotels
  • AED 7 for one-star/budget hotels

The DTCM Tourism Dirham is levied on a per night basis for a maximum of 30 consecutive nights. Guests have to pay this fee when they check-in.  

According to the DTCM, the Tourism Dirham must be shown as a separate line item on the bill. Note that the municipality charge and service charge may not be imposed on this fee.

DTCM also states that a fine of AED15,000 would be enforced on hotels that provide inaccurate documents or incomplete information regarding the Tourism Dirham. The fine also applies if hotels are found to manipulate accounts in relation to the Tourism Dirham.

Tourism Charges in other Emirates

The government of Abu Dhabi in May 2016 announced that hotels in the capital will also charge an additional fee of 4% of the hotel bill and AED 15 per night as tourism fee. 

Hotels in Ras Al Khaimah also charge AED 15 tourism fee per room per night. 

Tourist using ATM in Dubai

Other Tourist Taxes 

You should also know about the tourist taxes in the UAE that apply to restaurants, hotels, hotel apartments and resorts. These include

  • 10% tax on room rate
  • 10% service charge
  • City tax (ranging between 6% – 10%)
  • 10% municipality fees
  • 6% as tourism fee

This wraps up our guide on the Tourism Dirham in Dubai. You can also read more about the applicable taxes in the UAE , whether you are visiting the country or planning to move here. 

For those of you coming to Dubai for the first time, we have also compiled a master list of dos and don’ts of visiting Dubai to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable trip. 

Subscribe to MyBayut to learn more about the tourism industry in the UAE. 

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Watch Out for these Hidden Hotel Fees on Your Next NYC Stay

By Juliana Shallcross

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Rather than work charges into the nightly rate, hotels are tacking them on.

Recently, pesky hotel fees started appearing on hotel reservations at New York City hotels in Manhattan and Brooklyn, buried as a line item under taxes. Even the most seasoned traveler might not have noticed. Much like resort fees, the destination fee—also known as a facility fee or urban fee—covers amenities guests used to have to pay à la carte for, like Wi-Fi and phone calls, and some services already baked into the room rate, like access to the fitness center. But rather than work them into the rate, hotels were tacking them on.

In Las Vegas or Miami , long-standing resort fees are begrudgingly accepted, but the NYC hotel fees seem to have slid under the radar. In part, it's because they're not charged universally—in fact, only about 130 of New York City's 700 hotels across the boroughs apply destination fees, according to Lauren Wolfe, a consumer rights lawyer and founder of KillResortFees.com —but more likely, it’s because these fees are still a relatively new concept here, with only a few high-profile players starting to apply them.

“Urban resort fees have existed in New York City for a while now, but previously they were only limited to very small, slightly sketchy hotels that were trying to take advantage of international tourists,” says Wolfe. “Within the last year we've seen an explosion of hotel resort fees in New York City.”

Why hotels are suddenly charging this fee is a lot more complicated. Chris Heywood, senior vice president of global communications for NYC & Company, the destination marketing company for New York, says the fees aren't mandated by the city and are at the discretion of the hotels and their management companies. Some hotel owners argue that with all the new competition in the city, hotels need to keep their room rate as attractive (read: cheap) as possible. Then they can make up for the price cut later with daily destination fees.

Other hotels say that they are simply trying to improve a guest’s stay.

“The idea behind it was to see how to enhance the guest experience and provide added value to our guests as well as give them things they wouldn’t seek out on their own,” says Kathleen Duffy, spokesperson for Marriott’s NYC hotels. Sixteen Marriott properties in New York City currently charge destination fees, Duffy says. (There are 78 Marriott hotels in New York in total.)

But Wolfe, the consumer advocate, says it’s a way for hotels to skirt paying more taxes. Bear with us for a second as we do some math: The occupancy rate tax, at 14.75 percent, is much higher than the sales tax at 8.875. So if a hotel charges a room at $300 a night, but adds a $35 daily fee, only the $300 room rate is subject to occupancy tax, even though the guest is essentially paying a room rate of $335 a night, pre-tax. Currently, New York state doesn't have any laws governing destination fees, meaning they aren’t regulated—and hotels can charge pretty much whatever they want.

What can you as a hotel guest do about these fees? You can choose a hotel that doesn't charge a fee, for starters—just need to look under taxes and fees at the time of booking online, be it on the hotel site or a third-party OTA like Hotels.com or Booking.com . If you're booking by phone, ask if there's a destination fee on your daily rate if they don't volunteer the information.

Destination fees aren't necessarily a straight tax. Most hotels will specify the added value of their fee on their website. For example, JW Marriott Essex House at Central Park, where rooms are going for a low-season low of $400 a night, charges a $25 daily destination fee that includes a $35 food and beverage credit to use at their in-house dining establishments. The Hilton Midtown New York charges a $25 fee that includes a $15 beverage credit and a daily $10 food credit. The James SoHo charges a facility fee of $40 a night that includes a $10 daily food and beverage credit, ten percent off at the restaurant, and a welcome cocktail, among other services like unlimited local and long-distance calls. The 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge charges a $19 destination fee, but its website doesn’t say what’s included. When we gave the hotel a ring, they explained it was access to all the restaurants at the hotel.

As you can probably tell by now, there's no rhyme or reason to how these fees are applied, but it does seem that in the outer boroughs like Brooklyn, they're slightly lower—about $5–$10 cheaper. Still, if your heart's set on a certain hotel for your big city vacation, we (and the hotel) have a feeling no fee will get in the way of that.

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What Is A Tourism Fee

Published: December 11, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Aurel Donahue

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Introduction

When planning a trip, it’s important to be aware of any additional fees or charges that may be imposed by your destination. One such fee that has gained attention in recent years is the tourism fee. While it may be unfamiliar to some, understanding what a tourism fee is and how it can impact your travel experience is vital.

A tourism fee, also known as a visitor levy or a tourist tax, is a charge imposed on travelers for staying overnight in certain destinations. This fee is typically collected by the accommodation provider, such as hotels or vacation rentals, and is used to fund various tourism-related initiatives and infrastructure improvement projects.

The purpose of a tourism fee is to offset the costs associated with the increasing number of tourists visiting a specific location. It assists in maintaining and enhancing the local infrastructure, preserving cultural heritage sites, promoting sustainable tourism practices, and providing better visitor experiences.

There are various types of tourism fees, and their implementation can differ from one destination to another. Some fees are charged as a percentage of the accommodation rate, while others have a fixed amount per night. In some cases, specific areas within a destination might have separate tourism fees.

Definition of Tourism Fee

A tourism fee, also known as a visitor levy, tourist tax, or accommodation tax, is a charge imposed on travelers for staying overnight in specific destinations. It is a form of revenue generation for tourism-focused initiatives and infrastructure improvements. The fee is typically collected by the accommodation providers, such as hotels, bed and breakfasts, or vacation rentals, and is either included in the total bill or charged separately.

The purpose of a tourism fee is to generate funds to support various tourism-related activities, such as destination marketing, tourism promotion, conservation of cultural heritage sites, environmental sustainability initiatives, improvement of visitor experiences, and the development of local tourism infrastructure.

Tourism fees are usually implemented in popular tourist destinations that experience a significant influx of visitors. These fees help offset the costs that come with a growing number of tourists, including the strain on local resources, environmental impact, and provision of necessary tourist facilities and services.

The amount of a tourism fee can vary depending on the destination and the type of accommodation. Some fees are calculated as a percentage of the total accommodation cost, while others have a fixed amount per night or per person. In some cases, specific areas within a destination may have separate tourism fees.

It’s important to note that tourism fees are not universal and not all destinations impose them. They are often implemented by local authorities or tourist boards in collaboration with the accommodation providers to ensure sustainable tourism development and support the growth and maintenance of the destination.

Purpose of Tourism Fee

The primary purpose of a tourism fee is to generate funds that can be used for various tourism-related initiatives and infrastructure improvements. These fees play a crucial role in supporting the sustainable development and maintenance of tourist destinations. Here are some key purposes of implementing tourism fees:

Types of Tourism Fees

Tourism fees can take various forms, and their implementation can differ from one destination to another. The type of fee imposed is usually determined by the local authorities and tourism organizations. Here are some common types of tourism fees:

Examples of Tourism Fees

Tourism fees are implemented in various destinations around the world to support tourism-related initiatives and infrastructure improvements. The specific fees and their amounts can vary significantly from one location to another. Here are some examples of tourism fees imposed in different destinations:

Implementation of Tourism Fees

The implementation of tourism fees varies depending on the destination and the local regulations and policies. The process typically involves collaboration between the local authorities, tourism organizations, and accommodation providers. Here are some key aspects of the implementation of tourism fees:

Pros and Cons of Tourism Fees

Tourism fees have both advantages and disadvantages for destinations and travelers. It’s important to consider these pros and cons to understand the impact of these fees on the tourism industry and the overall travel experience. Here are some of the main pros and cons of tourism fees:

Impact of Tourism Fees on Local Economy

Tourism fees can have a significant impact on the local economy of a destination. These fees contribute to the overall revenue generated from tourism activities and can be utilized to support various economic sectors. Here are some key impacts of tourism fees on the local economy:

Usage of Tourism Fees

Tourism fees are collected with the purpose of generating funds to support various aspects of tourism development. The usage of these funds plays a crucial role in ensuring the sustainable growth and enhancement of the destination. Here are some common areas where tourism fees are utilized:

Tourism fees play a pivotal role in supporting the sustainable development and maintenance of tourist destinations worldwide. Understanding what these fees are, their purpose, and their impact is important for both travelers and destination stakeholders.

Tourism fees provide a vital source of revenue that can be used for destination marketing, infrastructure development, cultural preservation, environmental conservation, and enhancing the overall visitor experience. These fees help destinations cope with the increasing number of tourists, preserve their unique cultural heritage, and protect their natural environments.

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Seattle doubled its hotel fee. Here's where the money is going

As hotel occupancy rates climb slowly toward pre-pandemic levels, the city hopes the added marketing revenue will aid tourism recovery.

office buildings reflected in a glass window in downtown seattle

Downtown skyscrapers are relected on the hotel rooms at the citizenM Seattle South Lake Union hotel on Friday, June 24, 2022. Seattle doubled its per-night tourism fee on hotel rooms from $2 to $4. (Amanda Snyder/ Crosscut)

The pandemic cratered the tourism industry in Seattle. In the before-times, nearly 40 million tourists would visit the city and King County each year, almost 22 million of them staying overnight. It was an $8 billion industry and supported about 80,000 hotel and hospitality jobs in King County.

In 2020, there were only 10 million overnight visitors. Hotel occupancies dropped from 80% in 2019 to 26% in 2020.

Now, as summer 2022 finally gets underway in Seattle, tourists are walking the waterfront, cruise ships are arriving and hotel occupancy rates are climbing  back up to 60% . To help aid that recovery and ensure more visitors come and stay in the city, the hospitality industry is turning to what may seem like a counterintuitive approach: a higher fee on hotel rooms.

This story is part of a Crosscut focus on tourism: Open for Visitor s

The Seattle Tourism Improvement Area is an 11-year-old special assessment authority that requires 70 hotels in the greater downtown core to charge a per-room, per-night fee. When it was created in 2011, the STIA fee was set at $2 per-room, per-night. In March, the Seattle City Council voted to double it to $4.  Visit Seattle , the city’s tourism promotion group, said the doubled rate will allow them to bolster their marketing efforts to aid the industry’s recovery and compete with better-funded markets like Portland.

“The pandemic taught us how fragile our industry is,” said John Boesche, Visit Seattle’s senior vice president of tourism. “It also reminded us how competitive it is. Every destination is rolling out the welcome mat in a very aggressive way because the visitor market is so coveted because of what they contribute to a local destination.”

In 2019, at the $2/night rate, the STIA generated about $8 million for Visit Seattle. Because Seattle still has fewer visitors than before the pandemic, the $4 rate is projected to  raise about $9.8 million in 2022.

The vast majority of that money – $6.4 million – goes toward advertising that promotes Seattle as a leisure destination. Ali Daniels, Visit Seattle chief marketing officer, said they’re targeting more regional travelers within Washington, Oregon, California and British Columbia. That’s a shift from the pre-pandemic approach, when Visit Seattle marketed the city across the United States as well as in China, South Korea, Japan, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Germany, France, Australia and New Zealand.

Another $986,000 of the STIA revenues pays for some of the Visit Seattle staff's salaries. Other expenditures include $500,000 for partnerships with international travel agencies and marketing groups; $375,000 for public relations and press trips; $150,000 towards market research; and $75,000 to promote Seattle events such as the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon and the Taste Washington wine festival. The rest goes toward photography and videos for promotional materials, expenses and a reserve fund. 

a man walks with his luggage from shadow into light in downtown seattle

A hotel guest walks outside the Hyatt Regency Seattle in downtown on Friday, June 24, 2022. The funding from the tourism fee is used by Visit Seattle to run tourism marketing campaigns. (Amanda Snyder/Crosscut)

In March, as the city council considered approving the doubled STIA rate, Councilmember Dan Strauss drew a line from tourism to the city’s ongoing homelessness crisis, which is especially concentrated downtown where many visitors stay.

“How are you partnering with the Regional Homelessness Authority?” Strauss asked Visit Seattle representatives during a March 23 council committee meeting. “For the RHA to be successful, we all have to do a little bit.”

Boesche told Crosscut that the STIA ordinance restricts the revenue to leisure tourism-related expenses, so they cannot use it to pay for homelessness response work. But he argues that the tourism industry helps address the housing crisis because 37.5% of the  King County lodging tax helps pay for affordable housing and services for homeless youth.

As the hotel industry recovers, the doubled STIA rate is expected to start generating $18 to $19 million a year for Visit Seattle, a figure that could put them closer to other destinations relying on a similar special taxing authority. Los Angeles generated $15 million in 2021 from its special tourism tax. Portland, one of Seattle’s biggest competitors for tourism, raised $22 million.

Steve Sasso, Motif Hotel general manager and chair of the STIA ratepayers board, said the marketing efforts are especially important in the off season. He explained, “In the summer we’ll do well. But it’ll be hard without really cohesive marketing campaigns and efforts by everybody to continue to raise that level of awareness to keep visitors coming during shoulder season and off season.”

Some say that the pandemic recovery isn’t being felt evenly among hotel and restaurant owners and management and the service workers in the industry.

Hotel rooms at the Hyatt Regency Seattle

Hotel rooms at the Hyatt Regency Seattle in downtown on Friday, June 24, 2022. (Amanda Snyder/Crosscut)

“Workers and our members  hit rock bottom in the pandemic . There are fewer people at work still in most of our workplaces. Those fewer people are doing more work than they did before the pandemic and doing it in more difficult conditions,” said Stefan Moritz, director of strategic affairs at Unite Here Local 8, a union that represents hotel and hospitality workers. 

According to the most recent data from King County, staffing in the lodging industry is still down 39% from pre-pandemic levels. For one, that means fewer people are left to do the work of nearly twice the staff as visitor rates recover. But Moritz said there are added challenges, such as pandemic policies of cleaning rooms only between guests instead of daily, meaning rooms can be far messier, creating even harder conditions for short-staffed housekeepers.

Moritz said the union doesn’t have a stance on doubling the STIA or how it’s being used to market tourism. Instead, he sees the return from rock bottom as a moment to think bigger about how the industry operates. 

Hotel guests unload their bags from a taxi outside the Hyatt Regency Seattle

Hotel guests unload their bags from a taxi outside the Hyatt Regency Seattle in downtown. (Amanda Snyder/Crosscut)

“We need to have a bigger conversation about what a recovery in the industry looks like and how we can build more sustainable tourism in Seattle in general. Just increasing the budget for marketing isn’t doing that. For us it’s a question of fighting for a better hospitality industry for both the workers we represent and also the community.”

Boesche recognized the challenging moment the industry is in, both for bringing guests back and for rebuilding its workforce.

“It’s a game of chicken-and-the-egg right now,” Boesche said. “It creates a friction period where demand is surging, and that’s going to be superseded by some of the challenges with staffing levels. I know hotels are working to bring back staff and ensure tourism and hospitality is a lifelong industry for folks.” Correction: A previous version of the story referred to the STIA fee as a "tax." The City of Seattle and Washington Department of Revenue consider it a fee or assessment, not a tax.

Space Needle and the citizenM Seattle

Space Needle and the citizenM Seattle South Lake Union hotel on Friday, June 24, 2022. (Amanda Snyder/Crosscut)

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Josh Cohen is Crosscut's city reporter. Reach him at  [email protected] or on Twitter at @jcohenwrites .

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That ‘bed tax’ on your hotel bill isn’t going anywhere, but the things it funds are changing

A member of the house cleaning staff makes a bed in a hotel room.

Ever check out of a hotel and notice a “transient occupancy tax” on your bill? Unfortunately for your wallet, the Biden administration’s crackdown on “junk fees” won’t do anything about it.

But unlike some of the add-ons hoteliers and booking sites charge, this common type of tax doesn’t pad corporate margins, and the projects it funds are evolving in step with the post-pandemic tourist economy.

These levies — often known generically as “bed taxes,” though they go by many names — are imposed by state, county and local governments or tourism improvement districts. They can drive up the cost of an overnight stay at hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, campgrounds, and short-term rentals like Airbnbs, sometimes by up to 20%.

The jurisdictions typically decide how to allocate the revenue these taxes pull in. Sometimes they supplement governments’ operating budgets; other times they’re used to finance tourism campaigns, build convention centers, support cultural programs or hire beach lifeguards.

But in Estes Park, Colorado, bed taxes are now subsidizing housing and child care costs for local workers.

The mountain community, known as a base camp for adventures in Rocky Mountain National Park, voted for that move after a law Colorado enacted in March 2022 began allowing cities and counties to use hotel tax proceeds to cover housing and child care for their tourism-related workforces . In Estes Park, the decision came after advocates flagged a proliferation of second homes and short-term rentals that they said had strained affordability in the area.

Fishing in Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park

Last November, the city raised its hotel bed tax to 5.5%, up from 2%, and earmarked funds from the increase — an estimated $5.3 million in 2023 — for the housing and child care initiatives, said Kara Franker, the CEO of Visit Estes Park, a local tourism group. That beefed-up bed tax now combines with town, county and state sales tax to add a cumulative 14.2% onto the cost of a nightly stay in the city, she said, helping to fund a range of public services alongside the new workforce-related initiatives.

According to Colorado tourism officials, at least 17 municipalities have imposed a new bed tax or modified an existing one over the past year, many of them putting the revenue toward new types of projects.

Similar moves are happening in tourism-heavy areas across the U.S., said John Lambeth, CEO of travel consultancy Civitas, reflecting a more expansive approach that is “more about stewardship of the destination and giving back to the community.”

Jack Johnson, chief advocacy officer for the travel industry group Destinations International, said the disruptions of the pandemic have motivated some communities to consider whether broader social and economic policies “can be tied to travel in tourism, either directly or indirectly, and therefore paid for out of the bed tax.”

The more taxes states and cities levy on hotels, the more of a competitive disadvantage they create for local businesses.

Chip ROgers, CEO of the American Hotel and Lodging Association

Hotel taxes were first adopted in the U.S. by New York City in 1946 , became commonplace nationally by the 1970s, and are what guests typically see itemized on their hotel bills today, said Elizabeth Strom, an associate professor at the University of South Florida’s school of public affairs. Public officials have long loved bed taxes because they generate easy-to-raise income from out-of-towners, not local voters.

“Every state either has such a tax at the state level or permits such a tax at the local level, or both,” Strom said.

The newer breed of bed tax experiments, like those in Colorado, are being driven as much by windfalls from rebounding travel demand as by evolving civic attitudes.

Tourism revenues dipped sharply during the pandemic, but in 2023, hotel-generated state and local tax revenue — which includes bed taxes along with the other levies lodging operators contribute to government entities — is expected to reach $46.71 billion nationwide, up 13.6% from 2019, according to a study by the American Hotel and Lodging Association and Oxford Economics .

Bed taxes already account for nearly half of hotel-generated taxes in the U.S., the AHLA said, and it expects bed taxes this year will likely exceed the $19 billion they generated in 2019.

In Florida, which has been hit by multiple hurricanes that affected beaches and islands , Broward, Collier, Lee and other counties are applying tourism revenues to rebuild and protect those travel assets, Johnson said. Bed taxes now contribute financing for dune restoration, shoreline stabilization, erosion control and other coastal management activities, he said.

The shift has raised some concerns from the hospitality industry.

“In general, the more taxes states and cities levy on hotels, the more of a competitive disadvantage they create for local businesses, as potential hotel guests may seek out other destinations with lower tax burdens,” AHLA CEO Chip Rogers said.

As for the industry-imposed fees the Biden administration is scrutinizing, AHLA spokesperson Curt Cashour said that only 6% of hotels nationwide charge “a mandatory resort, destination or amenity fee, at an average of $26 per night,” adding that they “directly support hotel operations” like staff wages and benefits.

Cashour said the AHLA is continuing to work with authorities “to ensure that the same standards for fee display apply across the lodging booking ecosystem” so guests aren’t caught off guard.

Bed taxes may send extremely cost-conscious leisure and business travelers to lower-taxed destinations, Strom said, “but if you are a unique location, I don’t think an extra few dollars a night in taxes matters.”

“If people want to see the Space Needle,” she added, “they aren’t comparing the cost of rooms in Seattle to the cost of rooms in Portland.”

Some top tourist destinations say they aren’t worried about turning away tourists at the moment.

We want visitors that align with our economic and community goals — who will shop at local business, eat in local restaurants, participate in ‘voluntourism’.

Ilihia Gionson, a public affairs officer with the Hawaii Tourism Authority

Hawaii, for example, is seeing a strong post-pandemic tourism recovery, even though its 13.3% state and county transient accommodation taxes combine with 4.5% excise taxes to add close to 18% to nightly hotel bills. State revenue forecasters expect Hawaii’s bed tax alone to bring in more than $785 million this year, up from $645 million last year .

Since drawing more tourists isn’t the main challenge, said Ilihia Gionson, a public affairs officer with the Hawaii Tourism Authority, the agency is using some of the funds it gets from hotel taxes to try to influence what types of visitors it attracts.

“The wheels were turning before the pandemic and accelerated during the pandemic,” he said. “We want visitors that align with our economic and community goals — who will shop at local business, eat in local restaurants, participate in ‘voluntourism’ and be mindful of their economic impact. So, it’s less about, ‘Come here,’ and more about, ‘Here’s who we are and what we’re about.’”

San Luis Obispo, along California’s Central Coast, is also earmarking some of its hotel tax income for projects that authorities hope will benefit the community.

Its existing transient occupancy tax supports the city’s general fund. But last year a new “Keys for Trees” program began setting aside some proceeds from the city’s tourism assessment tax — another government surcharge on hotel bills — to help plant 10,000 trees by 2035 as San Luis Obispo pursues its carbon neutral goals, said Tourism Manager Molly Cano.

The city’s business improvement district raised $1.6 million from this assessment pre-pandemic and $2.1 million in fiscal 2022, Cano said. Previously, all these funds were used to market San Luis Obispo to visitors. But now 1% of that revenue is steered toward the new program, with some $17,000 reserved for planting 35 trees this fiscal year.

“There’s no extra step to take,” Cano said, “and we think visitors will enjoy knowing that just by booking an overnight stay, they are helping to preserve the beauty of our community.”

Harriet Baskas is an NBC News contributor who writes about travel and the arts.

Destinations behind a paywall? What to know about the increasing tourist fees worldwide.

hotel tourist fee

Travelers to Venice will have to pay up to see its historic canals and islands, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

To regulate heavy tourist traffic and “protect residents,” the City of Water announced tourist groups will be capped at 25 people – about half the capacity of a tourist bus – and ban loudspeakers, which create “disturbances,” according to the Italian city. Over the summer, crowds in St. Mark’s Square, the city’s main plaza, caused bridges to back up , and tourists saw overflowing trash cans. 

The city said the biggest culprits are day-trippers, who don’t add much economic value to the city – like eating at local hotels or restaurants – while still putting pressure on the city’s infrastructure. In 2022, 30 million people visited the City of Canals, but only 3.2 million stayed overnight in the historic city center. 

“I refuse to visit the city during tourist season even when friends and family are staying with me because the crowds are so crazy,” Nathan Heinrich, an American writer and designer who holds dual citizenship in Italy and lives just outside Venice, told USA TODAY.

This year, the city will trial a new day-tripper entrance fee of €5 per person ($5.44) during 29 peak days between April and mid-July. To enforce the fee, daytime visitors must register online and download a QR code, which officials will randomly ask to verify. If a traveler doesn't have the code, they can pay the tax on the spot along with an extra fine of up to €100 ($108.82).

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The news makes Venice the latest popular destination to increase fees aimed at tourists. Last year, Amsterdam announced it would increase its tourist tax by 12.5%, making it the highest in Europe. Closer to home, Hawaii failed to pass a widely supported bill in May that would make tourists pay for a $50 pass to enjoy the islands’ natural beauty.

As the demand to see and experience new places only strengthens, many popular destinations are working to add or increase fees aimed at the sheer number of travelers they get.

“There are concerns about overtourism and the strain it puts on the local infrastructure, the environmental impacts, and frankly it’s just a revenue stream,” Jason Block, CEO of travel advising company and a collection of travel brands known as WorldVia Travel Group, told USA TODAY. “You look at these places that are really dependent on tourism as an industry – and especially coming out of the pandemic where they lost a lot of that revenue – they’re playing a little bit of catch-up. They’re also seeing other destinations implementing without much impact to demand.”

Experts consider these fees the future of travel, so here’s how they are going to affect travelers. 

What are tourist taxes?

Tourist taxes are “something virtually every destination has in some shape or form” as a way to generate income from travelers, Block said. 

Nearly all destinations have a lodging tax, which is automatically added to your final hotel bill. Honolulu raised its lodging tax two years ago, adding up to 18% onto the hotel room rate. Destinations also have similar fees added onto final airline ticket prices or port charges if traveling by cruise ship.

More destinations are raising these fees to coincide with the increased demand. In January 2023, Aruba raised its lodging tax from 9% to 12.5%, and Amsterdam’s will rise from 7% to 12.5% this year. 

As for entrance fees like Venice’s or the upcoming electronic visa for the United Kingdom , these are newer concepts, but Block fully expects them to stay.  

“The lodging taxes have been there forever now, but you’re seeing places that have a separate environmental fee or levy or another line item, like an entry fee,” Block said. “You’ll see three, four, five line items. So it starts with your simple hotel transaction or a short weekend flight, a night in a hotel, and activities could have a lot of different tax lines.”

Where does the tourist tax revenue go?

It’s not all bad news for travelers, Block said. 

The money from tourist taxes are more likely than not reinvested into the destination. Though the revenue is typically aimed at improving life for the residents, it will also “make the travel experience better,” Block said. “One of the worst things you can do is pay for your dream trip to Venice and have a bad experience because the sewers are overrun or the roads are bad.”

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Iceland , known for its striking natural beauty, said it would broaden its accommodation tax to help protect its environment for future generations. The fee increase also aligns with the country’s goal to be carbon-neutral by 2040. 

“Tourists are enjoying (these resources), so they should foot part of the bill,” Block said. 

How are tourist taxes going to affect travelers? 

It depends. As more places introduce more fees, there can be concerns of a lack of transparency, Block said. It’s crucial for travelers to look closely at the breakdown of their airfare or hotel room and not just base their budget off the advertised price, he added. 

Though these fees seem inconsequential at first, they can add up. “When you add it all up for a week for a family of four, even if you’re sharing a single hotel room, that’s not insignificant,” Block said. Paris charges a flat €4 ($4.35) per person per night lodging fee, so for a family of four for seven nights, there’s an additional €112 ($121.88) on the hotel bill. 

Despite this, many travelers support the fees if it means contributing to the destination’s sustainability. 

"It's such a stunning place, with its canals and narrow alleys, but the sheer number of people visiting is putting a strain on it,” said Kayden Roberts, a digital nomad who visited in 2023. “Introducing a tourist tax here makes a lot of sense. It's not just about making money; it's about keeping Venice beautiful and preserving its cultural and historical treasures.”

Heinrich, the American designer, doesn’t think tourists will even bat an eye at the fees and will continue with their travel plans. “Anyone who can afford to take a trip to Italy can most likely afford a few extra euros to take a day trip into the city,” he said.

Others are worried the increase in tourist taxes could limit accessibility for travelers with lower budgets, but finding a solution is tricky. “This could be the start of a slippery slope of exclusivity that puts popular and important tourist destinations behind a paywall," said Heather Rameau, a content creator for travel brands based in Washington, D.C. “Ultimately, we all share this world and deserve access to see its beautiful places.

“Is there a need to better regulate and control the number of people visiting popular tourist spots, especially those that have a delicate ecosystem or are at risk due to climate change or other factors? Yes,” she said. “But is charging more money the way to do it? I'm not sure.”

Where has the highest tourist taxes?

  • Amsterdam: 12.5% of the nightly lodging rate
  • Barcelona: - Up to €6.25 ($6.80) per person, per night
  • Paris: - About €4 ($4.35) per person, per night
  • Dominican Republic: 23% of the hotel rate goes to taxes
  • Antigua and Barbuda: $100 for entry/exit fee
  • Honolulu: Up to 18% of the nightly lodging rate

Which major destinations charge a tourist tax (or are soon planning to)?

Temple_SOMPOP-SRINOPHAN

When traveling abroad, it's a good idea to account for any tourist taxes you must pay during your stay.

Some tourist taxes are a small extra cost added to what you pay for your accommodation per night. Others may be a one-and-done (or even daily) fee, such as Thailand's new tourist tax . In some places like Bhutan, these fees can be quite costly.

You might find your vacation spot has implemented this kind of tax for several reasons. It could be a response to overtourism and concerns about sustainability and the environment (case in point: Venice, Italy), or it could simply be a way to help the local economy put funds back into tourism infrastructure.

Here, we'll look at top tourist destinations that charge a tourism tax and how much each will cost you.

Europe and the United Kingdom

hotel tourist fee

Amsterdam's tourist tax is 7% of the hotel price plus 3 euros ($3.32) per night, with other types of taxes for different accommodations. (Find out more about the various kinds of taxes on Amsterdam's official website .)

Balearic Islands, Spain

Fees on the islands vary from 1 euro to 4 euros ($1 to $4.40) per night, depending on the accommodation type. This sustainable tourism tax applies to Menorca, Mallorca, Formentera and Ibiza.

Barcelona charges 5 euros ($5.53) per night in rental accommodation or 6.25 euros ($6.92) per night for a luxury hotel stay. These fees reflect April 2023's changes, with a further uplift to come in 2024.

In Berlin, the tourist tax is 5% of the room price. It varies in other cities such as Frankfurt — 2 euros ($2.21) per night — and Hamburg — up to 3 euros ($3.32) per night.

Depending on the accommodation type, Greece charges 0.50 euros (55 cents) to 4 euros ($4.43) per night.

Manchester, England

The newly introduced City Visitor Charge costs 1 British pound ($1.25) per room, per night.

The city charges 0.80 euros (89 cents) to 4 euros ($4.43) per night, depending on the kind of accommodation you choose. (Find out more here .)

The tax is 2 euros ($2.21) per night for the first seven nights in Lisbon and Porto. Other parts of the country that charge a tourist tax usually have lower fees around 1 euro to 1.50 euros ($1.11 to $1.66) per night.

In the capital of the Czech Republic, there is a charge of 50 koruna ($2.36) per person, per night for hotel stays.

In Rome, the tax varies from 3 to 7 euros ($3.32 to $7.75) per night, depending on the star rating of your accommodation.

Valencia, Spain

From the end of 2023 on, tourist taxes in Valencia will range from 0.50 euros to 2 euros (50 cents to $2.20) per night, depending on the type of accommodation you choose.

Venice, Italy

Taxes in this popular tourist destination vary from 1 euro to 5 euros ($1.11 to $5.50) per night and are paid to your accommodation. A separate tax for people visiting on a daytrip — which will cost between 3 and 10 euros ($3.32 and $11), depending on the time of year — is expected to come in the future.

Other destinations

Additional places in Europe that charge tourist taxes include Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Hungarian capital of Budapest, Malta, Montenegro, Slovenia and Switzerland. Some locales may only have regional tourist taxes.

Tourist taxes can always be introduced later, so be sure to do your own research before you travel. This is especially true for Edinburgh, Scotland, as the city is on the brink of introducing a tax of 2 euros ($2.50) per night . Potential tourism tax discussions are also underway in Wales .

North America

hotel tourist fee

A Transient Occupancy Tax of around 10% to 14% of the room price will appear on hotel stays, according to Turbotax . There may be other tourism-related taxes as well.

Rates vary across the country, but Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Nova Scotia and Quebec are among the areas that add a visitor tax to a hotel's price.

While Hawaii doesn't currently have a tourist tax, a $50 Green Fee visitor payment could be coming soon .

New York City

The tourist tax here costs about 14% of the room price plus up to $2 per room, per night, according to the New York City government website .

In addition to the ones mentioned above, you should expect taxes and fees on hotel stays in most other U.S. states.

Latin America, South America and the Caribbean

hotel tourist fee

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Tourists will pay $1.50 per room, per night when staying in Argentina's capital city.

The Caribbean

Taxes vary by country in the Caribbean. For example, Bonaire has a one-off $75 fee that tourists need to pay via its official website , while Aruba adds 9.5% to your room rate plus $3 per room, per night. In Barbados, you'll pay $2.50 to $10 per room, per night, and there will typically be a $70 departure tax already included in your flight cost.

Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Bermuda, the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Dominica, the Dominican Republic, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Maarten, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and the U.S. Virgin Islands are also known to apply tourist taxes. Check details before booking or traveling, as some may be a departure tax already included in your airfare.

Quintana Roo, Mexico

This region charges a one-off tourist payment of 224 Mexican pesos ($12.39) to visit any destination in Quintana Roo. This includes Cancun, Cozumel, Holbox, Playa del Carmen and Tulum. A tourist tax may also be added to hotel stays in these areas and other parts of Mexico.

Asia and the Pacific

hotel tourist fee

Bali, Indonesia

A tourism tax is currently being considered for Bali, according to The Guardian .

Bhutan charges a whopping $200 fee per day. Known as the Sustainable Development Fee, this tourist tax is designed to assist with paying for infrastructure improvements, environmental efforts and fair wages for locals, among other things.

There is a charge of 1,000 yen ($7.57) included in all airfare for flights departing Japan. (Find out more here .)

Malaysia's tourist tax costs 10 Malaysian ringgits ($2.27) per room, per night.

The tourism tax in the Maldives ranges from $3 to $6 per day. The Green Tax total varies depending on if you're staying in a guesthouse, hotel or resort. (Find out more here .)

New Zealand

When you book your New Zealand visa, you'll usually pay 35 New Zealand dollars (around $22) for the International Visitor Levy.

There may be tourism-related taxes on hotel stays in Sri Lanka, according to Rough Guides .

A one-time fee of 300 baht ($8.79) will be introduced in June 2023. All tourists arriving by air will need to pay this tax. For visitors who enter the country via a port or land border, the fee will be 150 baht ($4.40).

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    Hotel fees encompass a range of extra charges guests may pay for amenities and services. However, they are more than just additional charges on a guest's bill. ... Hanson, a clinical professor at New York University's School of Professional Studies Tisch Center for Hospitality and Tourism, revealed that hotels in the US have been collecting ...

  10. How to Spot Those Pesky (and Expensive) Lodging Fees

    Travelers have long complained about the shock of finding a deal on a hotel for $100 only to learn it doesn't include the $45-a-night resort fee, a charge undergoing new legal scrutiny. Though ...

  11. Understanding Hotel Fees and Surcharges: A Comprehensive Guide

    This fee is charged by many hotels, especially those located in popular tourist destinations. The resort fee typically covers amenities such as pool access, fitness center usage, and Wi-Fi. It's important to note that the resort fee is often not included in the initial room rate, so be sure to factor it into your budget when comparing hotel ...

  12. Understanding Hotel Taxes, Resort Fees & Deposits For Incidentals

    New York State Sales Tax for Hotels - 4%. New York City Sales Tax for Hotels - 4.5%. MCTD (Metropolitan Commuter Transportation District) sales & use tax - 0.375%. NYC Hotel Room Occupancy Tax Rate - $2 per room + 5.875%. New York State Hotel Unit Fee (aka Javits Center fee) - $1.50 per unit per day. It winds up being a little less ...

  13. Tourism Dirham in Dubai in 2020: Fee, Services & more

    The Dubai Tourism Dirham fee is as follows: AED 20 for five-star hotels. AED 15 for four-star hotels. AED 10 for three-star hotels. AED 7 for one-star/budget hotels. The DTCM Tourism Dirham is levied on a per night basis for a maximum of 30 consecutive nights. Guests have to pay this fee when they check-in.

  14. Watch Out for these Hidden Hotel Fees on Your Next NYC Stay

    Bear with us for a second as we do some math: The occupancy rate tax, at 14.75 percent, is much higher than the sales tax at 8.875. So if a hotel charges a room at $300 a night, but adds a $35 ...

  15. What Is a Tourism Fee

    This fee is collected by the hotel and goes towards funding city services, such as transportation, cultural programs, and tourism promotion. 5. Rome, Italy: Rome imposes a tourist accommodation tax, known as "tassa di soggiorno," on visitors staying in hotels, B&Bs, or vacation rentals.

  16. Seattle doubled its hotel fee. Here's where the money is going

    The Seattle Tourism Improvement Area is an 11-year-old special assessment authority that requires 70 hotels in the greater downtown core to charge a per-room, per-night fee. When it was created in ...

  17. Tourist Voucher

    Contributor. 387 posts. 34 reviews. 21 helpful votes. I booked hotels through booking.com, emailed one of the hotels and they sent me through a link to a website (hotelspro) where you fill in your details and pay a small fee, and you get your tourist voucher emailed through immediately. Moscow, Russia.

  18. The hotel tax Biden's 'junk fee' crackdown won't touch

    Tourism revenues dipped sharply during the pandemic, but in 2023, hotel-generated state and local tax revenue — which includes bed taxes along with the other levies lodging operators contribute ...

  19. How increasing tourist taxes are going to impact travelers

    Paris: - About €4 ($4.35) per person, per night. Dominican Republic: 23% of the hotel rate goes to taxes. Antigua and Barbuda: $100 for entry/exit fee. Honolulu: Up to 18% of the nightly lodging ...

  20. Which major destinations charge a tourist tax (or are soon planning to

    This sustainable tourism tax applies to Menorca, Mallorca, Formentera and Ibiza. Barcelona. Barcelona charges 5 euros ($5.53) per night in rental accommodation or 6.25 euros ($6.92) per night for a luxury hotel stay. These fees reflect April 2023's changes, with a further uplift to come in 2024. Germany. In Berlin, the tourist tax is 5% of the ...

  21. TOURIST HOTEL

    Tourist Hotel, Moscow: See 320 traveler reviews, 243 candid photos, and great deals for Tourist Hotel, ranked #294 of 513 hotels in Moscow and rated 3 of 5 at Tripadvisor.

  22. Hotel booking in Moscow and other Russian cities

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